'Holmes' show use of Air Force helicopter sparked resentment

By HELEN TUNNAH

Broadcaster Paul Holmes might have raised more than $2 million for flood victims in the North Island, but using the Air Force to fly his crew around has apparently sparked resentment.

A Government review of the February floods, which left thousands homeless, refers to complaints about Holmes and his transporters.

Who is actually upset is not detailed in the report, which mentions "several confrontations" during the floods over whether private vehicles or Defence Force assets could be requisitioned for emergency purposes.

"Some resentment arose when external [national assets] were used for purposes other than immediate support to the crisis," the review team wrote.

"One example is the use of RNZAF helicopters to move television teams [the Holmes crew] around devastated areas."

After visiting the region, the Holmes show co-ordinated a fundraising campaign, bringing in $2,026,000 for victims. Donors said at the time that they gave money after seeing the images.

Paul Holmes said he was sorry someone was unhappy about his crew using the helicopter.

He did not recall any ill feeling at the time and did not know who it had come from.

He said his crew got on the chopper at the military's invitation.

They spent less than two hours on board and got off once or twice during the trip while the helicopter picked up stranded people.

"I never thought anyone was delayed while we were filming.

"The understanding always was that in no way would we stand in the way of the rescue effort."

Seeing the devastated areas spurred him into fundraising for the flood victims.